Key board appointments announced ahead of Keepmoat and Apollo merger

Published by Jon Land for 24dash.com in Housing

The new chief executive of the soon-to-be-merged Keepmoat and Apollo groups has announced a number of key board appointments.

Ian Sutcliffe, who replaced David Blunt as CEO of the Keepmoat Group last month, will be joined on the new board by David Sheridan, currently Chief Executive of Apollo, who will become Chief Operating Officer for the northern half of the country.

In addition, John Thirlwall, currently Keepmoat Finance Director, will become Group Commercial Director, responsible for commercial processes, major bid support, procurement, site services, HSEQ and property.

Peter Hindley, currently Keepmoat Director of Homes, will become Group Business Development Director, responsible for strategy, partnerships, sales, marketing and PR, business development and innovation.

A further two board appointment are expected to be confirmed in due course, namely Chief Operating Officer South and Chief Financial Officer. Nick Ash, currently Managing Director of National Housing for Apollo and Steve Allen, currently Finance Director of Apollo, will cover the respective roles on an interim basis.

The merger, which is expected to be completed later this month, will create a national market leader in community regeneration and social housing repairs and maintenance with a turnover of some £1 billion (as at 31 March 2011) and approximately 3,500 employees across the UK.

New chief executive Ian Sutcliffe said: "Both companies have great people and numerous complementary strengths, and it is our intention to build upon these through the merger to provide you with an even better service, that includes national coverage and a comprehensive, integrated offering."